In 2016, Geneva University of Art and Design (HEAD – Genève) launched the PhD Forum: a meeting space and predoctoral training with the aim to support emerging arts and design researchers who are interested in pursuing a practice-based doctorate (in different frames, HEAD – Genève providing only a few PhD positions).
The PhD Forum is coordinated by Associate Professors Olivier Desvoignes & Marianne Guarino-Huet (microsillons) to offer a program of collective study and individual mentorship.
Throughout an annual six-day on-site program, the PhD Forum offers an opportunity to reflect on and build a PhD Research Proposal (in French or English). Participants will be supported by an individual mentor from HEAD – Genève. In addition, we will map PhD study opportunities in art & design and share experiences in practice-led research and participatory action research.
The program is a unique opportunity to be part of a network of researchers in arts and design as well as to contribute and benefit from the research culture at HEAD – Genève.
The PhD Forum is open to anyone aiming to begin a PhD research and ready to follow all the on-site sessions at HEAD – Genève.
 

Applications: 
A master’s degree is required to apply.
A good understanding of French and English is required.
Participation is free of charge.

Provisional schedule:

• 29, 30 October 2026
• 10, 11 December 2026
• 18, 19 March 2027

Applicants are required to submit a CV and a one-page motivation letter in English or in French describing the PhD project.
Applications for the 2026–27 PhD Forum are to be sent to microsillons.head@hesge.ch by 01 September 2026